A man was killed riding his bike in Palm Springs early Monday morning.
And nearly 20 hours later, we still don’t know any more than we did before.
According to multiple reports, the victim was struck by a motorist around 4:45 am at Ramon Road and Compadre Road. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died.
There’s no information at this time about the victim, or how the crash occurred. Police are still unsure if either the driver or victim were under the influence.
Video from the scene shows heavy damage to the center of the hood and windshield, suggesting the victim was struck directly with some force.
The driver was arrested on unrelated charges. He was not publicly identified.
The Palm Springs Post reports the victim was the fifth person killed riding a bike in the city in five years.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Traffic Division of the Palm Springs Police Department at 760/323-8125.
This is at least the tenth bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the second that I’m aware of in Riverside County.
Update: The victim has been identified as 58-year old Palm Springs resident Nelson Esteban.
Still no word on how the crash occurred, or why the driver was arrested.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Nelson Esteban and his loved ones.
